Introduced in 1952, the Gibson Les Paul Standard quickly became one of the most iconic electric guitars ever made, shaping the sound of popular music for over seven decades. The earliest ‘Gold Top’ models remain especially desirable, prized for their distinctive tone, feel, and timeless aesthetic. This 1952 Gibson Les Paul Standard is an excellent example from the first production year, offering all the character of the period with just the right amount of vintage wear. Complete with its matching Gibson GA-40 Les Paul model amplifier, case, strap, hang tag and promotional material, this guitar is truly the complete package for collectors and players of golden ear Gibson solid body guitars.
Built with a solid mahogany body finished in gold lacquer, the guitar has developed a beautifully aged patina and natural checking, giving it an authentic vintage look with any excessive areas of wear, with some minor play wear to the rear of the neck but not much else to mention. The chunky early ’50s neck profile is full in the hand yet comfortable, perfectly suited to expressive playing without too much of a 'baseball bat' feel. This guitar features all the hallmarks of a first year model, with the wraparound Les Paul trapeze tailpiece, shallower neck angle, lower positioned pearl 'Gibson' logo on the headstock, and taller profile barrel knobs.
The original soapbar P-90s deliver the classic Les Paul bite—warm and rounded when played clean, with plenty of punch and edge when pushed harder. The wiring loom appears untouched, with the original IRC pots dating to the 18th week of 1952, and the original grey tiger capacitors present and correct. As these early examples did not feature serial numbers on the rear of the headstock, original pot code dates and other specifications are key to dating models from this period. The no line Kluson tuners with single ring buttons, pickguard, fret inlays and pickup covers are original and free from any repair work, although the plastic output jack plate has been replaced, with the original retained in the case. There is a slight chip on the original nut where the low E string sits, however it does not affect playability or tuning stability. The original 4 latch Lifton case is in very good condition, with this guitar also including its original hang tag and a period correct guitar strap.
The Gibson GA-40 launched at the same time, and was marketed as the Les Paul Model amplifier. A 1x12 amp with 15 Watts output, the GA-40 has a noticeably different tonal character than equivalent tweed amps of the period, with a more mid range focussed sound. Based around a 5879 preamp section and 6V6 power tubes, this amp still runs on its original 110V USA transformer, so will require and step down transformer to use with other voltages. The amp has had a replacement handle fitted, although the original is retained along with the original footswitch. A repro amp cover is also included.
This guitar has been given a full service by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 2 year warranty.
